How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling under the pressure of a sluggish NHS waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to get answers and will pay private providers to give them.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that many private clinics were giving inaccurate assessments. This has sparked concern and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to visit a psychiatrist for a full evaluation to be diagnosed with ADHD. While some people get their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only one who can provide you with a formally recognised diagnosis for medication. This is especially important since the need for a formal diagnosis is essential to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to get access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by psychiatrists).
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, as well as inattention are the three primary signs of ADHD. While everyone has some of these characteristics occasionally however, those with ADHD tend to exhibit them in a more extreme form. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, being unable to stay still or feel restless, and may also be a problem with planning and organisation. Impulsive behavior may include making reckless decisions, buying items without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without proper preparation. Inattentive ADD can be identified by difficulty in staying focused, procrastination, missing deadlines or an inability ability to think ahead. Combined ADHD is the most common form of the condition and involves problems with both inattentive and impulsive/hyperactive symptoms.
Although many adults are nervous about having an ADHD diagnosis, it's vital to seek one to receive the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms, and find strategies and tools to assist you in overcoming them. After being diagnosed, many of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process consists of an examination of your symptoms and how they impact your life, and the completion of the DIVA online exam and an extensive interview. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are able to make you feel relaxed.
The Assessment
You will need to undergo an exhaustive evaluation as an adult suffering from ADHD before being diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This could be a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse (though a nurse cannot prescribe medication). It doesn't matter how high their position in the pecking order of healthcare professionals when it comes to their specific capabilities, experience, and knowledge that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will use a structured interview to gather as much information as possible about your symptoms, how they affect your life and relationships, and how long you've been suffering from them for. They will also go over your medical history and ask about your the mental health history of your family as well. The doctor will then take into consideration all the information collected from various sources before determining an assessment based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the examination you will be asked to take tests that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also assess the impact of your symptoms on how you function in your daily life. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory and inkblots, as well as tests such as puzzles or timed tasks. private adhd assessment adults take into account any other conditions you may be suffering from as they may have similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
The test will also include an interview with a person who is familiar with you - for example, an individual from your family, partner or a friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine whether they affect your work or relationships.
The expert will provide you with a thorough explanation of the findings of the examination, as well as the options available for treatment. This may include a shared-care contract with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will discuss their recommended holistic plan for your care and discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't easy for adults with the condition. The first step is to have an individual assessment with a specialist doctor who can confirm or deny the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with extensive knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able to inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that might explain some of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are caused by the medication you are on.
After the examination your doctor will review the results and recommend a plan of treatment. Based on your specific needs, this could involve the use of psychotherapy or medications. Many people suffering from ADHD take stimulant medication to ease their symptoms. These medications are believed to enhance brain's natural chemical messages, like norepinephrine and dopamine which play a significant role in the development of attention and movement. Most people notice that their symptoms improve rapidly when they take the medication on a regular basis.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from a treatment program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. It can also include strategies to reduce their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and tasks. Some people with ADHD can also benefit from dietary changes, which can aid in improving their energy levels and concentration.
Certain adults might have a harder time getting the diagnosis of ADHD particularly if they belong to minorities. This is due to the fact that some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. The people in these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied a treatment because of this.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatment can be difficult, especially in the event that your insurance does not cover it. Hospital-based clinics often offer specialized ADHD clinics that take into the financial aspects. Additionally, these clinics are more likely to participate in a variety of insurance plans, and have residents and interns in training who can offer treatment under the guidance of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to understand the impact of their condition on their lives. They don't always realize the fact that their struggles in organizing, planning and completing tasks lead to problems at work or in relationships. People with high IQs might be more likely to not understand the impact of ADHD. They might develop coping mechanisms that enable them to perform at a lower level than they could. However, these can result in other problems, such as anxiety, depression or alcohol or drug abuse.
This article highlights the need to seek expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many sufferers are unable to get NHS treatment due to the sluggish waiting lists. Some people pay for private health care but aren't guaranteed that their GPs will agree to an "shared care agreement" that will allow them to return back to the NHS for follow-up treatment after a personal diagnosis of ADHD. They could be required to continue paying for private therapy, medication, or even more costly coaching services.
Always check if the health professional you're thinking of working with has expertise working with adults who have ADHD. You can check their website or contact them to confirm they have the expertise needed. You can also inquire if they have treated comorbid conditions (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
Choosing the right psychiatrist or therapist is crucial, as they will be the one who prescribes your medication if needed. Choose a doctor that has completed specialized training in adult ADHD. You can do this by contacting your local support group for adults with ADHD, or the Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) organization to find an expert in your area.
When choosing a therapist or psychiatrist, you must also consider your own personal preferences. For example, some people will be more comfortable with someone who is of their gender or ethnicity. You might also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with clients who are kink-allied.